S650 running voltage 5.0 V8

[Ewags81]

Anyone else paying attention to running/cruising/idling voltage? I was flipping through info screens and noticed 13 volts while running. Kind of freaked me out cause I'm used to seeing 14.2-14.5 on boat engines (obviously more primitive alternator/regulator setup. I'm assuming we have bms for charging? So... I watched and noticed the following:
13 or 13.5v at idle and acceleration.
Typically 14.5 at cruise.
Drop to 13 with throttle input.
Increase to 13.5-14.5v coasting off throttle.
Can anyone or one of our Ford techs here confirm? The first thing I thought of was that black screen issue and wondered if those screen issues could be tied to the low voltage swing.

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[Alan Applegate]

With modern BMS', you might see even lower voltages for short periods, as it checks the batteries SoC and DoC. As for the acceleration difference... I don't know for sure, but reducing the load on the alternator may be one way to squeeze a few pound feet of torque down to the wheels. This is also the reason most cars unload the AC compressor during acceleration.

 

[drive_55_not]

Yes, what you are seeing is normal.

Ford has been using 'smart charging' for years, it's supposed to increase fuel mileage by reducing parasitic drag from the alternator by not charging under load, and then does regenerative charging while coasting and cruising,


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[Ewags81]

This all makes sense. Probably able to maintain consistent spark with coil on plug setup. Then avoid alternator load like mentioned. I kind of figured just wanted to verify. Thanks

 

[Neggytive]

Yep, Smart charging controlled by the ECM

Something I have found on Fords is that they DO NOT like manufactured alternators.

If you ever have to replace a bad alternator in a Ford product that has smart charging, buy an OEM and you'll thank me later

 

[Ewags81]

Will remember that thanks for the info

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